Pets graduate to senior status at differing rates. Cats are usually considered seniors once they turn 10 years old. Small breed dogs aren’t usually considered seniors until they are 11, or even later. Meanwhile, giant breeds might be seniors as early as six or seven years of age. At Unleashed Pet Care in Westland, MI, we’ll let you know when it is time to step up your pet’s care to meet its needs as they age.  

How Often to Bring Your Senior Pet to the Veterinarian?

Up until your pet becomes a senior, you can usually get away with annual exams, unless they have an ongoing health condition. Once they become a senior, you’ll want to increase the frequency of their checkups to at least twice a year. These visits will include a visual physical exam along with blood work and other lab tests that can help us catch serious health conditions earlier. 

Learn How to Care for Your Senior Pet’s Mental Health

The risk of your pet experiencing cognitive decline increases with its age, and your vet can check for signs of senility that might respond to special types of at-home care. Your pet’s vet can show you how to do some simple activities at home to keep your favorite furry companion’s mind sharp. Pets that experience severe anxiety symptoms as they age may also benefit from medication and other forms of professional treatment. 

Get Nutritional Counseling for Senior Pets

Weight management becomes more of a concern for senior pets. If your pet is in fairly good health, the realization that they are losing weight at a rapid pace may be a sign that they need to switch to a new type of food. Pets with diabetes or obesity may need a special diet to help them stay within the ideal weight range. Working with a professional veterinarian helps to remove any doubt about whether or not you are feeding your pet the right diet. 

Catch Common Senior Pet Problems Early

A senior pet’s lowered immune system may make it harder for them to fight off common parasites and illnesses. Regular vet visits can detect these problems before they cause severe symptoms. Vets can also treat certain types of cancer better when they are caught in the early stages, and your pet’s veterinarian can help guide you through the planning steps for end-of-life care for animals when the time comes. 

Schedule Your Pet’s Senior Care Visit Today

Is your pet reaching its senior years? Give us a call at Unleashed Pet Care in Westland, MI, where our team can help you make the next stage of your pet’s life better than ever.